Newcastle rival Sunderland for Wigan's Geordie boss Bruce

The Mail on Sunday says if Alan Shearer's demands prove too much, Newcastle could turn to Steve Bruce, who is also a prime target for Sunderland after approaches to Louis van Gaal, Dick Advocaat and, most recently, Roberto Mancini were politely rebuffed.

Wigan owner Dave Whelan last week gave Bruce permission to talk to Sunderland but the boyhood Newcastle fan, who grew up just outside the city in Corbridge, has made no secret of his desire to take charge at St James' one day.

He would also come with the valuable experience - lacked by Shearer - of having taken a club up from the Championship.